Karla Perez-Mendoza

She works tirelessly as chair of the World Languages & Cultures Department and looks forward to making this division the best among its peers. She also leads Geffen Academy’s research efforts. Upon completing her M.A. in Latin American Studies, Karla joined Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy and soon after assumed the role of department chair. She also taught in the linguistics department at UCSD and in the Chicano/a Studies Department at East Los Angeles Community College. Before joining Geffen Academy, Dr. Perez-Mendoza was the lead instructor for the Bilingual Authorization Program at UCLA where she prepared teachers for bilingual classrooms. In addition, she has a strong background in research. She has led research teams and has published articles in support of more inclusive K-12 pedagogical practices and policies with a focus the Latinx community. She has a Ph.D. in Education at UCLA, an M.A. from the University of California, San Diego, and a B.A. from Pomona College, both in Latin American Studies. Karla was born on Dia de los muertos—"the Day of the Dead"—a cultural celebration of those who have passed away that is widely held across Latin America, the United States, and now, Geffen Academy!